Tabletop Marigolds

Marigolds probably aren’t the chicest bedding plant around these days, but I’ve always loved the bright sturdy little flowers. And I think style has a lot to do with context:  I don’t think I’d plant them in a row along our brick walk, but I think they look fresh and cheerful indoors, bunched in a low, wide container.

By Saturday, last week’s tulips had bit the dust, so I need something for the dinner table.  As usual, I was short of time, so I made a quick stop at the nursery on the way home from the market in Southampton and picked up a half flat of cell pack marigolds. I cut them apart into clusters of two and four and arranged them in a large bowl I often use for fruit or produce in the kitchen, filling in the gaps with preserved moss.  The project was quick, cost less than $10, and (based on last year’s experience) the centerpiece should look good for a couple of weeks, if I remember to water it.